Speaking to reporters during a Bulls practice on the campus of UCLA, Derrick Rose addressed his rehab and the recent rumors that have been circulating

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Thoughts in Chicago on whether or not Derrick Rose should play this season seem to be split down the middle between those who feel he should play now and others who are OK with the All-Star and former MVP taking the entire season off.

“Right now, I’m feeling about the same, where my leg is getting a lot stronger. I’m just trying to be patient,” Rose said when asked for a status update on his rehab. “I think I can do everything. It’s just me having the confidence to do it. It’s just me feeling normal.”

Rose has been medically cleared to play, causing many to opine that he should suit up and get out there and play. But both the team and Rose himself have said the decision is up to him and he doesn’t feel any pressure – from fans or the organization – to rush back.

“I don’t have a date, to tell you the truth. I haven’t even really thought about it. Like I said, I’m just taking my time. I haven’t taken any steps back. I’m moving forward, I’m getting stronger every day. I did every workout possible. My workouts are getting a lot easier, but I’m moving in the right direction.”

Rose also shot down reports and recent rumors that a possible rift exists between him and the organization, especially after comments made by his older brother Reggie.

“It’s crazy. I hear about it, but I try not to pay attention to it,” said Rose. “Crazy, making up stuff. Everybody assumes everything, man. I’m the last person someone would have a confrontation with. I’m not trying to argue with anyone or anything. Everything’s been great. It’s crazy. You hear all the stories that’s going on and none of them are true.

“My brother is my brother, where I’m going to have his back, no matter what, so the comments, he just felt he had to say something. That’s his opinion. I just felt the organization has been doing a great job of getting people around me, but he just had to get it off his chest.”

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